//------------------------------// // 2 DWMA // Story: The Reaper of Equestria // by Anonomis //------------------------------// One week later, Rarity notified Kid that she was finished with the outfits he requested. A surprise in the way of a second black suit was made as she figured he would need it. “These are amazing! Thank you so very much,” Kid said happily “You are very welcome. With the assistance from a friend of mine that helps animals out; I was able to fill your vest and jacket with leftover feathers from those that didn't need them. I also used stuffing in there as well to help keep you warm along with four heavy-duty buckles and a zipper to close your jacket,” Rarity explained “Out of curiosity, how much would I owe you for the work?” “You do not owe me anything for these. I always make at least one item for a client for free. And don't worry; there is plenty of business,” she said reassuringly “Shoe Shine wanted me to inform you that he also finished his work.” “That’s good to know.” Rarity allowed him to leave the clothes there while he headed next door. “Ah, a pleasure to see you again. These are the shoes you asked for,” Shoe Shine said “The total will be 50 bits.” “Thank you very much for these.” Kid casually removed the money and made his purchase. Once that was complete; he decided to try on the shoes. The pair of casual shoes were black and light gray, while the boots were solid black. With the boots, he first tucked his pant legs into the boots as he would do with the white and khaki outfits. Both were to his liking and he decided to keep the boots on when he retrieved the clothes. “Those look good on you. Very practical,” Rarity said admiring Shoe Shine’s work “I figured these would help in cold or desert areas.” Rarity insisted on carrying his shoe boxes while Kid had the clothing. Once they reached the house, Blair brought the shoes in as Rarity returned to the boutique to continue her work. “Those look good. So, boots for harsh conditions and the others for everyday use? And let me guess; white for the snow and khaki for something else,” Blair asked “The khaki is for desert areas. I figured it would be best. Rarity also made a second black outfit for me.” “I agree with Blair. Rarity is known for creating beautiful outfits and these certainly are an example of that,” Cloud Chaser replied “A message arrived earlier for us,” Flitter said handing him a scroll ‘Kid, we would like you and your friends to be at the castle tomorrow. Our instructors will be arriving and we would like you to greet them, Princess Celestia’ “I'll grab my clothes and we'll head there now. Better to be early than late.” “Here, you might need this,” Flutter said handing him a bag “Thanks.” Kid carefully folded his second black outfit and placed that in the bag along with the casual clothes and shoes. He also decided to leave the shoulder holster behind and keep the others. “You're not bringing the other outfits,” Flitter asked “No, I'll leave those here. Before we go on a mission, we'll return here.” “Very well. It does make sense,” Chaser said After packing, the four headed to the train for their trip to the castle. An hour later, they arrived and were greeted by Celestia, followed by Twilight and three others he didn't know. “I see you're like me, Kid,” Twilight replied “Wanting to arrive earlier than necessary.” “If you'll follow me, I'll direct you to potential living quarters,” Celestia said She directed everyone into the mostly-abandoned city to fine a place to stay. Looking around, Blair found one that seemed modest and contained four bedrooms amongst other amenities. “I take it, that the four of you are fond of that house,” Celestia asked “Yes,” Kid and the others said “We'll put up a marker letting the others know of its occupants. Twilight; you know where your family lives,” Luna said, creating a sign “The rest of us will probably take one of the bigger residences,” Rarity said as the others nodded “And our delegates will be directed to a similar house. It's a shame that most everyone left,” Luna replied “Why'd they leave,” a blue pegasus asked “Name's Rainbow Dash. The orange one is Applejack and the yellow is Fluttershy.” “Stubbornness. They threatened to leave if we carried on with the academy,” Celestia explained A portal opened up and a trio of people came out. The first was a male with silver hair and a giant screw sticking out his head, sitting on a rolling office chair. Secondly, a male with light brown hair arrived with a giant glove covering one arm. The final member was a blond male. “GREETINGS EVERYONE! MY NAME IS JUSTIN LAW,” the blond said rather loudly, causing everyone to cover their ears “YOU DARE USE THE ROYAL CANTERLOT VOICE AGAINST US,” Luna roared in response “Luna, calm down. He's wearing earphones,” Kid said “Girls; a little help?” The girls transformed into weapon form as Kid calmly raised them. Without warning, they were fired at Justin, seemingly missing their target. “You missed,” a shocked Dash asked “You shot my earphones,” Justin said sadly “Oops. Sorry. My fingers slipped,” Kid deadpanned “Who the buck are you,” Dash demanded, pointing at the three newcomers “Death's greatest meister; Dr. Franken Stein. Death Scythe Justin Law; “the Guillotine”. And the “Chainsaw Madman”; Giriko,” Kid said introducing everyone “Giriko; aren't you supposed to be dead?” “Who exactly are you? You look like Death the Kid, but I saw him before I left,” Stein asked “I actually don't remember my old name. Last I remember, as does Blair; we went to a convention and were sent here by a being known as the Merchant. Since I dressed as Kid, I started calling myself that.” “Yeah, technically I was dead. Death offered me a chance to return with the guarantee of another body upon my return to Death City,” Giriko replied “So; are you currently alive,” Twilight asked “As long as I am here. So; I'm going to be a teacher,” Giriko replied “If you both don't mind, I'll teach classes. The two of you can help with combat training,” Stein suggested “Do you mind introducing yourselves?” “I'm Princess Celestia and this is my sister Luna. To my left is my student Twilight Sparkle and her friends: Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Applejack and Pinkie Pie,” Celestia said motioning to everyone “As I mentioned previously, Blair is a Displaced like myself. And these are my weapon partners, Cloud Chaser and Flitter.” “Nice to meet everyone. I have an important question. Where are we going to stay,” Justin asked “The three of you will be staying in the castle. The students will be staying here,” Celestia replied “Princess Celestia, do you mind if I tried something,” Stein asked “Not at all. What do you wish to try,” Celestia replied “I'd like to see your soul,” he replied, putting a hand on her chest “That's odd, I can't sense it.” “Canterlot. Her soul protects the entire area; similar to father protecting Death City.” “You're right. I didn't think about that,” Stein said After introductions were made, everyone headed inside to the dining room for a dinner of soup and sandwiches. The staff thought it would be best to provide a simple meal, as they didn't know their eating habits. Later that night, the students departed to their respective homes. “It's a shame this was abandoned,” Blair commented “It really is. At least housing is taken care of,” Kid said ● MANE-SIX (FIVE) ● “This is great. Plenty of room to stretch my wings,” Dash said “We're guests in this house. Show some respect, darling,” Rarity said “I agree. This may be abandoned, but it's not ours to run wild in,” Applejack added “I wish Twilight was with us,” Fluttershy said “Well, I'll hold off on throwing any parties until school starts,” Pinkie said cheerfully “No cannons in the house,” Rarity, AJ and Dash said simultaneously “Okie-dokie-Loki,” Pinkie replied ● TWILIGHT SPARKLE ● “Mom, dad; it's good to be home,” Twilight said “What made you stay here with us,” Night Light asked “I haven't seen my parents in so long. Besides, I know my friends will save me a room.” “I wish you the best of luck, dear. Having two meisters in the family is interesting,” Velvet said “I haven't heard from my BBBFF since he left for the Crystal Empire.” “Perhaps, some time you can go and meet him there. I'm sure he misses his LSBFF,” Velvet suggested ● DWMA TEACHERS ● “So, Stein; what do you think of our new location,” Justin asked “Equestria is an interesting world. I never thought I'd see a world of talking equines,” Stein replied “Well, at least there's plenty of females here, regardless of looks,” Giriko said “Could you at least try not to have sex with any of the residents,” Justin asked “I actually agree. We were invited here as teachers under Lord Death’s suggestion. Please do not do anything that could cause an incident,” Stein added “Alright, I promise,” Giriko said dismissively ● NEIGHSAY ● “So, we have some uninvited guests. Good thing I have that spy close to Celestia. I'll pay her a visit and close that so-called ‘academy’ of hers,” Neighsay said to himself ● THE NEXT DAY ● Everyone had a quick breakfast in the castle before heading outside to wait. Celestia was informed that the train carrying the delegates would be arriving shortly; followed by a second carrying other students. A portal suddenly opened and Neighsay calmly emerged with a seemingly cocky swagger. “Who are you,” Stein asked “I am Chancellor Vladimir Neighsay of the Equestria Education Counsel,” Neighsay said coldly “Now; where is this academy?” “You're looking at it. Canterlot Castle is the home of the DWMA,” Celestia replied “Well; then I hereby order the closure,” Neighsay replied The chancellor proceeded to summon a chain and wrapped it around the handles before attaching a lock to seal it. “This academy is no more,” Neighsay said smugly “By the authority given to me by the Grim Reaper; I hereby remove this lock.” Kid calmly drew his pistols and maneuvered himself sideways with one pistol facing the door and the other pointed at Neighsay. One shot managed to remove the lock, much to the chancellor's dismay. “How could you remove my seal!? There is no one with that power,” Neighsay asked trying to comprehend what just occurred “First off, try that again and you WILL lose your horn. As to my power, I am the son of the Grim Reaper.” “Where are your instructors,” Neighsay asked, changing the subject “They're standing right behind you. I'd recommend not pissing them off. They might decide to kill you,” Kid said In response, Giriko flashed a smile that could be described only as ‘psychotic’; while Stein casually turned the screw in his head. Seeing this caused the chancellor to leave rather abruptly. “Well, not that that's over, we have some actual business to attend to.” “Welcome to the Death Weapon Meister Academy,” Celestia said addressing the delegates “This is our school? Inside the castle,” Smolder asked “Yes. Classes will be taught inside, while combat training will be in the courtyard,” Celestia replied “Does everyone know if they are a weapon or meister,” Stein asked “Yona know she weapon. Ice axe,” the female yak said “I'm a flamethrower that's fitting for a dragon to become,” Smolder replied “Claws,” Gallus said simply “The other three of you are meisters,” Stein asked “I guess so,” Sandbar said cautiously “The six of you are in need of living quarters. The house at the end of this road should be perfect for you,” Celestia said Moments before the second train arrived, the delegates chose their living quarters. As they did so, the train arrived and allowed it passengers to depart. “Bloom? You're attending the academy,” Applejack asked a pony with a red bow in her hair “Not alone. Big Mac is with me,” Apple Bloom replied “Sweetie Belle, you're a weapon,” Rarity asked “Of course. Mom and dad were surprised when I transformed,” Sweetie Bell answered “So Tavi; what do you think about being here,” Vinyl asked “Well, being a weapon, it's nice to see others,” Octavia replied “I hope I find a meister capable of using me,” Blueblood said, causing some to roll their eyes “Welcome to the DWMA,” Celestia said “Perhaps we should head inside in order to start school properly?” Once inside, the students were directed to one of the bigger rooms in the castle. The room contained desks and chairs. Stein was the last to enter, having decided to use his office chair to make an entrance, only to fall on his back as the chair tipped over. “Good morning, students. I am Professor Stein. These two are my assistants, Justin Law and Giriko,” Stein said, lying on his back “Are you mute or something,” Gallus asked sarcastically, flipping off the Death Scythe “Oh Lord; grand me strength,” Justin said, summoning a guillotine blade from his arm “Justin; don't do anything stupid,” Kid suggested as the blade retracted Kid might have only been a student, but he recognized the problem an incident could create. “Does anyone know the purpose of meisters and weapons,” Stein asked After not receiving an answer after a few minutes, Stein decided to explain. “The purpose is to eliminate kishins. A kishin is a being that consumed the soul of another and continues to devour others. Any meister to manages to collect 99 kishin souls and 1 witch, will be able to create what's known as a Death Scythe,” Stein explained “What's that mean,” Blueblood asked “They become the personal weapon of the Grim Reaper; Lord Death. Justin Law is one of the only people to become a Death Scythe without the assistance of a meister,” Stein continued “Where is this Lord Death,” Gallus asked “He's unfortunately unable to leave his home of Death City. As such; it is unknown as to whom a Death Scythe may belong to, here in Equestria,” Stein finished “In a few days, we're starting combat training. I'd recommend all weapons practice transforming as you will need it,” Giriko said “We'll dismiss you early today. Head to the courtyard to practice and we'll see you in a few days,” Justin added The students filed out orderly and headed for the courtyard. Many worked together and managed to find success. Octavia transformed into a shield and sword, both reminiscent of a cello and bow. “Applebloom, congrats with transforming Mac into a hammer,” AJ said Kid watched as Twilight and the others were able to transform their friends. Rainbow Dash became gauntlets that would pack a punch. Applejack was a whip, which seemed to fit, while Pinkie was a hand-held pistol with a science fiction based design. “You don't need to practice,” Sandbar asked curiously “No. I've already been able to use my weapon partners,” Kid said “Anyone want to be my meister,” Blueblood asked, causing Kid to chuckle After everyone trained for a few hours, they decided to head back to their residences to relax. Kid observed the others, but like he mentioned, had no need to practice as he was successful with Cloud Chaser and Flitter. “So, what do you think about the other students,” Kid asked “Not counting Twilight and the others, I don't know how many show promise. Blueblood seems to be a slacker,” Chaser said “Well, the Crusaders seem to have enthusiasm, but who knows how they'd do in combat,” Flitter added “Agreed. When we do participate in the combat, I'm not going to use the two of you.” “But why? Aren't we partners,” Flitter asked sadly “I don't want to cause any structural damage. It's only for training. Stein and I are able to resonate with any weapon.” “Understandable. Besides, it's just temporary,” Chaser replied ● NEIGHSAY ● “I can't believe Celestia would have those freaks teaching! They all seem to be psychotic. I have to be extremely careful now,” Neighsay said out loud ● PRINCESSES ● “Well, that was interesting to say the least,” Luna commented “I actually didn't expect Neighsay to try and seal the doors,” Celestia replied “Kid certainly proved to be his father's equal. Removing that seal is almost impossible for anyone. The two of us may have been the only ones to do so,” Luna added “Well, the students show promise. I hate to say, but Blueblood is a failure,” Celestia said “Not everyone is perfect. Besides, we really can't do anything about our nephew,” Luna said ● THE NEXT DAY ● Everyone headed towards the classroom; only to find a note saying class would be outside in the courtyard. Once there; the princesses were standing next to their instructors with a container. “We're going to start combat training. For protection, the princesses are going to put a dome up everyone will fight in. To make things interesting; each pair will be randomly selected,” Stein said as Celestia did just that The dome covered the entire courtyard and was designed to be invisible, so everyone could see the fights. Celestia made sure no damage would take place while inside. “May I add one rule, professor,” Kid asked as Stein nodded “These fights will be under ‘touch combat’. To win, the weapon must touch the opposing meister. The last thing we need is injured students.” “As an introduction; how's about Death the Kid vs Franken Stein,” Giriko suggested “Very well,” Stein said “Blueblood; would you be my partner for this match,” Kid asked “Sure,” Blueblood said transforming “Do you mind if I borrow your scooter,” Kid asked as he approached Scootaloo “Go ahead, but how is that going to help,” she asked curiously “You'll see.” Blueblood transformed into a rapier sword as Kid mounted the scooter with his other hand between the handlebars. Stein surprisingly wheeled his chair inside as Luna took charge. “Both of you ready,” she asked as they nodded “Fight.” Kid started peddling and had the sword at his side like a jousting match. Stein simply turned the chair to dodge the attack. In response, Kid pulled a 180° and charged again. Stein managed to shove his chair out of the way. “Alright, it's time to get serious,” Stein said getting off the chair “Agreed. Let’s have some fun.” Kid simply placed the scooter next to the chair and headed to face against his professor. “How can Professor Stein compete against Kid without a weapon,” Twilight asked “Kid did refer to him as ‘Death's Greatest Meister’ for good reason. You'll see that for yourself,” Celestia replied Kid knew about Stein’s use of his Soul Force attack and wanted nothing to do with it. Coming up with a plan, he figured the chair might help. He grabbed the chair and sent himself careening towards Stein. At the very last second, he vaulted off and landed behind him only to be met with a palm to the solar plexus. “Soul Force,” Stein said sending a light shock into Kid “Damn.” “That was a good fight,” Justin said “Kid, was it; could I do that with my scooter. Sorry. I'm Scootaloo,” she asked “I wouldn't see why not. Yes, my name is Death the Kid. Everyone can just call me ‘Kid’ though.” “Why didn't you use your own weapons,” Gallus asked “Girls; would you do me the honors?” Once they transformed, Kid calmly headed inside the dome. “Scattershot,” he directed With that, everyone outside could see the entire dome getting shot repeatedly. That ability allowed the pistols to act more like automatic weapons and could hit everything in a given area. “I don't need the training with my partners as everyone else would.” “Next match will be…Scootaloo vs…Apple Bloom,” Justin said, drawing the names “Bloom, good luck,” Scootaloo said The two friends reluctantly took their places in the dome while their weapons took form. “Well, this should be interesting. Shield versus hammer,” Stein commented Scootaloo tried to maneuver her shield to attack her friend but found it uncomfortable and abandoned the idea. Bloom was careful in taking her time to strike as she knew the downside of having such a huge weapon. “So, Bloom. Going to attack me at all,” Scootaloo taunted “Scoots; you know I'm the leader for a reason,” Bloom replied jokingly “Mac, let's try someone new.” To her surprise, Big Mac changed to a short handle and Bloom realized it was now easier to swing. Grabbing her friend's scooter, she charged at Scootaloo. “Thanks for the ride Scoots,” Bloom said “Well, you can't pull the tricks off I can,” she replied “You'd be surprised what I can do,” Bloom said Apple Bloom rode towards Scootaloo, who planted the shield down as Bloom used it as a ramp before jumping off at the last minute to strike her best friend. “The winner of the match is Apple Bloom,” Justin said “Thank you for showing me that technique, Kid,” Apple Bloom said “You're welcome. I'm glad you both of you learned how to use the scooter as an additional part of your techniques.” After everyone took their turn at combat, they were dismissed. Staying behind were the three instructors, the princesses and Kid and his partners. “Princess Celestia; could we possibly talk?” “Everyone; let's head to the throne room. I fear there is a traitor amongst my staff,” Celestia replied Celestia directed everyone inside as she locked the room to outsiders. With the possibility of a traitor, she wasn't taking any chances, especially if they were under Neighsay’s control. “Now that we're safe; what did you want to talk about, Kid,” Celestia replied “I wanted to inform you about my decision to leave the school for about a week.” “Why do you want to leave,” Stein asked curiously “Two purposes. One, I'd like for the three of us to learn more about the extent of our abilities. Two, I wanted to do a little soul collecting. Try and get a little progress towards creating my own Death Scythes.” “Very well. To avoid any questioning by the other students, I'm going to teleport the three of you home. Until you're ready to return; avoid Canterlot Castle,” Celestia replied “Thank you Princess Celestia,” Kid, Chaser and Flitter said simultaneously before leaving “Kid, girls; welcome back,” Blair said “There's a strange pony I saw earlier. He had black hair and a goatee. For whatever reason, he was staking out our house.” “He didn't see you; did he?” “Not that I'm aware of. Why? What's wrong,” Blair replied “Neighsay is in charge of the school board. I fear there's more to him; such as possibly being a witch.” “If that's the case, I'm guessing he has a few spies. One is probably one of the castle’s workers, while maybe the staff could also be working for him,” she guessed “Celestia mentioned that,” Chaser replied “What brings you back,” Blair asked “Getting ready to leave tomorrow. Going hunting.” The next day after having a decent meal, Kid dressed in his new white outfit and got ready to leave. Before they could do so, an unexpected visitor was waiting for them. “Where do you think you're going,” Neighsay demanded standing in front of the door “I'm going to the village of Noneya,” Kid calmly replied “Why would a student need to skip school,” Neighsay questioned “Again; that is none of your business. Now leave.” Once Neighsay teleported away, Kid had the girls transform and stuck them in the holsters before heading to the train station. ● NEIGHSAY ● “Insolent child! How dare he think he can order me around!?” ● MAIN-SIX ● “Professor Stein; do you know where Kid is? He hadn't shown up,” Twilight asked “He said he had something to take care of. I'm sure he's fine,” Stein replied “Should one of us go looking for him,” Fluttershy asked “He's a Reaper. He'll return when he's ready,” Justin added “Very well. I just don't want anything to happen to him,” Twilight said “I’m glad you show concern for him,” Stein replied as she blushed “He's just a friend. I have to worry about my friends,” Twilight replied “It's alright. Just admit you love him,” Dash added, earning a punch in the arm by AJ “Not you too,” Rarity asked “Can we throw him a party when he returns,” Pinkie asked “That's up to Kid. I don't know if he's interested in parties,” Stein said “Got any alcohol for the party,” Giriko asked curiously “Sorry; we don't drink,” Celestia said “Damn. I had to ask. We'll see him soon,” a defeated Giriko said “Until then, we continue class and training as usual. We can't just quit because one student didn't show up,” Stein directed “Agreed. When Kid returns, we can put him in training,” Justin added